Headquarters Army Of The Potomac, July 3, 1864.
We are not doing much at present; the great heat and the
dust, together with the exhausted condition of the men, imposed a quiet on us
which the enemy does not seem disposed to disturb.
To-day is the anniversary of the last day's fight at
Gettysburg. As I reflect on that eventful period, and all that has elapsed
since, I have reason to be satisfied with my course, and cause to be most
thankful. The longer this war continues the more will Gettysburg and its
results be appreciated. Colonel de Chenal, who is still with me, says he
studied the battle, with maps at Pau, but had no idea that on its anniversary
he should be the guest of the victorious commander. He says in Europe it was
looked on as a great battle.
It is said Washington is very unhealthy, and that many of
our wounded are dying there. It is strange; the health of the army never was
better — we have no sickness at all. But if we are kept here, I presume, as the
summer advances, we must expect considerable sickness.
SOURCE: George Meade, The Life and Letters of George
Gordon Meade, Vol. 2, p. 210
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